This course presents theory, policy, and practice of international trade and international business. We will emphasize the economic and geographic bases for and effects of international trade and investment, and emphasize Canada, China, Mexico, and the US, and their trade relationships. In Winter 2013, we will undertake two tests, two short papers, and a variety of exercises in and outside of class meetings. There are no particular prerequisites; students interested in geography, international studies, business, political science, and public affairs should find this course especially useful.

Student learning goals

Learn the basic outlines of world trade patterns, and explain these outlines using international trade theory (ITT).

Use an understanding of ITT and its assumptions to understand and assess the critiques of liberalized trade policy.

Gain empirical grounding in the trade relationships of Canada, China, or Mexico, emphasizing the trade patterns and trends with the United States.

Distinguish the varied forms of international business (IB), and the choice criteria among them.

Ask and begin to answer questions about the logistics of international trade.

Present a nuanced perspective on trade-policy recommendations for the United States and one other country, to benefit each side.

General method of instruction

As instructor, my objectives are to:

> present lectures and on-line notes that provide both substantive content and some synthesis of readings and assignments;
> design individual and interactive activities that get students to do something and thereby learn the material, in addition to passive listening and reading;
> give assignments and tests that assess the learning objectives;
> assess students in ways that reward individual effort while encouraging students' learning from each other.

The information above is intended to be helpful in choosing courses. Because the instructor may further develop his/her plans for this course, its characteristics are subject to change without notice. In most cases, the official course syllabus will be distributed on the first day of class.
Last Update by James W. Harrington
Date: 01/04/2013

Office of the Registrar
For problems and questions about this web page contact icd@u.washington.edu,
otherwise contact the instructor or department directly.
Modified:April 23, 2014